About 8% of all babies born in the United States are premature. Due to medical advances in recent decades, extremely premature babies have a much better chance of surviving than they did before. However, they are still at risk for complications, including stillbirth and premature death.

Prematurity: A Mental Health Risk Factor?

The study analyzed data from 41 previous studies on prematurity, following a total of 2,712 low birth weight babies and 11,127 typical birth weight babies. The study spanned 12 countries and 26 years.

Premature babies’ increased risk of mental health conditions began in childhood and continued well into adulthood. Almost every study found an increased risk for attention-deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) during childhood and adolescence. Teenagers were more likely to have social difficulties, and adults experienced higher rates of depression, anxiety, and shyness.

Placenta previa, which happens when the placenta covers the cervix opening

Premature Babies’ Mental Health

Several other studies have also linked small birth size to mental health issues. One previous study found premature babies were more likely to develop ADHD, depression, tics, and some other mental health diagnoses in adolescence.

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tyner

March 7th, 2017 at
2:23 PM

My daughter was five weeks early and thankfully she has been fine thus far. She has never had any real physical problems as a result nor has she had any real learning difficulties as a result of her early delivery. We are so thankful.

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